Let’s discuss Air France self-transfer flight compensation guidelines.
Travelling can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with self-transfer connections. What should you do if you miss your flight? Are you entitled to compensation? And what does a self-transfer flight mean? In this guide, we answer all these questions to help you understand your rights and the steps to claim what you deserve.
Understanding Self-Transfer Flights
What is a Self-Transfer Flight?
A self-transfer flight refers to the process of booking multiple flights individually instead of securing a single, connecting flight through an airline.
As indicated by the term, you are responsible for managing this transfer. This means it’s up to you to arrive in time for your subsequent flight or flights, retrieve and recheck your luggage, and so forth.
In contrast to airline-protected connections, no airline will take responsibility for ensuring you make your next flight.
And you won’t receive Air France self-transfer flight compensation.
Why Choose Self-Transfer?
Picture this – you can select from ALL available flights.
You fly from London to Paris with Air France and then catch another flight from Paris to your next destination. The options are vast when you’re not limited to a single airline.
Self-transfer flights provide flexibility and potential savings.
You can opt for your favourite airlines, preferred layover durations, and routes. However, be aware that the risks are greater because you bear the responsibility for any missed connections.
Potential Risks of Self-Transfer Flights
The main risk involves missing your next flight.
Should your initial flight be delayed or cancelled, resulting in a missed subsequent flight, you’ll need to take care of the expenses for rebooking and possibly accommodation. Travel insurance that includes coverage for trip interruptions can help alleviate these risks.
Remember, airlines do not cover self-transfer flights. If you miss your next flight, the airline won’t assist or book you a new free flight.
What If You Have an Air France Self-Transfer Flight?
The rules are the same as with other airlines: you must ensure you arrive on time for your next flight. Regardless of the type of self-transfer involved:
- Air France – Air France flight
- Air France – a flight with another airline (low-cost or traditional)
- another airline – Air France flight
Each flight is considered a separate journey. If one flight is delayed or canceled, the airline is not responsible for the other flights.
If you have two unconnected flight legs with Air France, it’s also classified as a self-transfer flight. Keep in mind that a connecting flight involves booking two or more flights in a single reservation.
Read more: Air France Missed Connection Compensation
The Reality of Missed Connections
When you miss a self-transfer connection because of a delay or cancellation, Air France is not responsible for your situation. It will be necessary for you to secure a new flight on your own. If the layover extends into the night, be prepared to cover your hotel expenses as well.
Always weigh the potential costs and have a contingency plan ready.
Your Last Flight Is Delayed or Cancelled (Least Stressful Situation)
This is the least stressful situation.
In such cases, you’ll reach your destination without facing any significant financial drawbacks. You won’t have to arrange a new flight to get there, nor will you need to find accommodation.
Your only responsibilities will be to:
- Obtain a new ticket from Air France if your flight is cancelled;
- Wait for your delayed flight if the flight is simply delayed.
If you’re stuck at the airport for three hours or more, Air France must assist you for that specific flight. If your wait goes overnight, they are required to provide free accommodation and transportation. These rules apply to all airlines operating in the EU. More details are provided below.
Read more: Air France — Ryanair Self-Transfer Flight: Who Is Going to Pay Compensation?
You Can Get Compensation for the Disrupted Flight (But Not for the Connection)
In Europe, this is your right.
- If your flight is cancelled with less than 14 days’ notice due to Air France’s fault, you can receive flight cancellation compensation.
- If your flight is delayed by 3 hours or more, and it’s due to Air France’s fault, you can receive flight delay compensation.
However, this applies only to the single flight and not to the entire connecting flight itinerary.
If only the last part of your flight is delayed or cancelled, it could be financially beneficial. You might get more in compensation than what you originally paid for the ticket.
Keep in mind that you won’t receive Air France self-transfer flight compensation for the entire journey. only for the disrupted flight.
You Have a Right to Care (for Each Flight)
Your connection might not be secure.
But you have a right to care for each flight leg.
If your flight is delayed by 3+ hours, the airline should provide free meals and communication. For overnight waits, they must offer free accommodation and transport to/from the airport. You’re entitled to care from the airline for delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
Ensure you reach out to Air France if they are not providing you with any assistance. The same applies to complimentary care, as well as compensation and refunds for flights.
Do you gave more questions about Air France self-transfer flight compensation? Ask in the comments.
Featured photo by Matthew Turner from Pexels